Japan under Conservative Rule. On the 70th Anniversary of the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan

This article analyzes the long and, in many ways, unique reign of the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan (LDP), which has held power, with only a few interruptions, for nearly seven decades since its founding in 1955. It examines the institutional, social, and economic mechanisms that have enabled the party to maintain its leading position in the country's political system. These include the LDP's ability to adapt to changing conditions, skillfully combining traditional values with pragmatic approaches to governance, as well as its effective interaction with the bureaucracy, big business, and regional elites. It examines how the party's internal organization, the presence of stable factions, and the distribution of resources within it ensure stability and controllability of political processes. It also emphasizes that such dominance does not guarantee perpetual power: demographic changes, an aging society, declining trust among young people in traditional parties, and intensifying political competition create new risks. The article concludes that the LDP's future development will largely depend on its readiness for internal transformation and openness to new ideas. Rethinking traditional governance approaches, implementing structural reforms, and strengthening government transparency measures can not only renew the political system but also strengthen public trust. Amid growing international instability and technological change, the LDP must find a balance between maintaining continuity and adapting. The success of these efforts will determine whether the party can maintain its leading position, ensuring sustainable development and political modernization in Japan in the 21st century.